Universal Studios have announced plans to build a theme park on land between Milton Keynes and Bedford, which have been backed by the British government.

The news was confirmed in a joint statement by the international theme park brand and the government earlier today (10/04), with plans to open a theme park by 2031, subject to planning permission.

Plans to build the multi-billion pound site have been circulated for just over year and a half, with the proposals intending to build the theme park on the site of a former brickworks near to Kempston and Stewartby, just to the south-west of Bedford and the north-east of Milton Keynes.

The proposals will fill a site over 475 acres, with the site being Universal’s first ever branded theme park in Europe to go with sites it operates in North America and Eastern Asia.

Plans include a 500-room hotel, a retail, dining and entertainment complex and several exhibitions, rides and attractions themed around Hollywood film and TV show properties.

In a statement, Universal Destinations and Experiences said the plan was intended to be a major economic boost to the South East England region. They said, “At opening, the theme park would be one of the largest employers in the region, with approximately 80% of employees expected to come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, with many more communities benefiting from apprenticeships, training and educational opportunities.”

The British government has said the plans would create around 28,000 jobs in both the construction and operation of the site, with Universal saying the site would welcome in excess of 8 million visitors a year.

Universal have said with planning permission that construction could begin next year. The company had first announced plans to build a Universal Studios theme park in the United Kingdom in December 2023, having first acquired the Bedfordshire site a few months earlier.

Local infrastructure projects proposed as part of the scheme includes the expanded construction of Wixams railway station on the Midland Mainline between London and Bedford, an additional train station on the East West Rail route between Bedford and Milton Keynes, direct slip roads from the A421 to accommodate the expected surge in road traffic, and an upgraded Manor Road.

Figures in local government were among those to back the government’s support of the programme.

Cllr Pete Marland, leader of Milton Keynes City Council, said, A green light for a world class attraction just 20 minutes from Milton Keynes unlocks major opportunities for our thriving city and will be transformative for the whole region.

“Obviously, there’s great economic potential which we’re in a strong position to make the most of, and the opening of the East West Rail line will bring even closer connections. We’ll benefit from the creation of thousands of new jobs, and city businesses can expect a significant boost to visitor numbers and spend. Development of this scale goes hand in hand with improved infrastructure alongside investment in housing, community facilities and beyond.

“We’re committed to working in partnership with Universal Studios, Government, Bedford Borough Council and neighbouring authorities, Destination Milton Keynes and other partners to maximise the benefits of the development.”

Bedford Mayor Tom Wotton said, “This is a landmark moment for Bedford Borough. Universal’s decision to proceed with its theme park and resort in the UK brings exciting opportunities to our doorstep – thousands of jobs, new training and career paths, and a huge boost for local businesses.”

Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, added: “I am excited about the next phase and the borough’s role in elevating the UK’s profile as a leader in the visitor economy and creative industries. With continued sustainable growth, Bedford Borough is poised to become a must-visit destination and a prime hub for business investment, driving growth for our community.  

“At opening, Universal will be one of the largest employers in the region, and it is expected that approximately 80% of employees will come from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton & Milton Keynes. We have been working closely with Universal Destinations & Experiences for over two years, in partnership with national Government and regional stakeholders, and it’s great to see the progress made today.”